The Detroit Lions are moving past their recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings and turning their attention to the Washington Commanders. As part of their preparation, players and coaches have been reviewing game film to identify weaknesses — and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard didn’t hold back in pointing out where Terrion Arnold needs to step up.

According to Nolan Bianchi of the Detroit News, Sheppard described Arnold’s run defense as “unacceptable” and made it clear that the 22-year-old cornerback understands the criticism.

Arnold had just returned from a three-week absence due to a shoulder injury, but his coaches aren’t letting that serve as an excuse. Expectations remain high, and his performance against Minnesota didn’t meet the standard. He finished the game with only three tackles and recorded his worst missed tackle rate of the year (60%). Per Pro Football Focus, Arnold also posted season lows in tackling grade (24.3) and run-defense grade (26.4). For the year, his 43.2 run-defense grade ranks 99th out of 107 cornerbacks, showing how much work he has to do in that area.

Sheppard did acknowledge Arnold’s potential in coverage, but even that part of his game needs improvement. The former Alabama standout has given up 20 catches on 34 targets for 314 yards (15.7 yards per catch) and one touchdown — all while missing three games due to injury.

Head coach Dan Campbell has maintained faith that Arnold will progress, emphasizing earlier this season that development takes time. The staff continues to be patient, but that doesn’t mean they’ll stay quiet when he underperforms.

Right now, the message from Detroit’s coaching staff is clear: Arnold must elevate his play. The team still believes in his talent, but patience has limits. How he responds to this public challenge will determine whether he justifies the Lions’ confidence — or confirms growing doubts about his role moving forward.